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Gaza Genocide11 April, 20261 min read

Israel Reopens Al-Aqsa Mosque After 40-Day Closure During US-Iran War

Al-Aqsa Mosque reopened after a 40-day closure by Israeli authorities. First Friday prayers held since reopening; turnout reported from thousands to over 100,000.

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Israel Reopens Al-Aqsa Mosque After 40-Day Closure During US-Iran War
Image: Euronews

Al-Aqsa Mosque Reopens

The Al-Aqsa Mosque reopened after a 40-day closure imposed by Israeli authorities. More than 100,000 Muslim worshippers performed Friday prayers, according to the Islamic Waqf. The closure had barred Palestinians from performing daily prayers, including five consecutive Fridays and Eid al-Fitr.

Israeli police deployed hundreds of officers in the Old City. The reopening came after a truce agreed between the United States and Iran.

Image from Al Jazeera
Image: Al Jazeera
Reporting for this sectionAl JazeeraThe Times of IsraelTRT World

Worshippers' Reactions

Palestinians expressed joy and relief at returning to pray at Al-Aqsa. Mohammad Saaedeh said, "Hopefully they will not close Al-Aqsa again." Sharif Mohammad said, "Friday prayer is an obligation for us, but performing it at Al-Aqsa is something entirely different."

Palestinians from the West Bank remained subject to strict Israeli restrictions. The reopening was marked by tensions and arrests.

Image from Al Jazeera
Image: Al Jazeera
Reporting for this sectionAl-Monitornabdapp

Regional and International Responses

The reopening came amid a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Egypt condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that Al-Aqsa is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims.

The reopening coincided with preparations for the Holy Fire ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Israeli authorities lifted most restrictions linked to the state of emergency over the war with Iran.

Reporting for this sectionThe Times of IsraelAl-Monitor